Emergency and security condition retractable computer arrangements

Abstract

A computer arrangement for inducing a retraction of a computer component in response to a sensed emergency or security condition. The computer arrangement can include an enclosure with an open inner volume and a support member extendably and retractably retained relative to the enclosure. A computer component, such as a monitor, a keyboard, or a laptop computer, can be retained relative to the support member. One or more sensors can sense an emergency or security condition thereby to induce a retraction of the support member and, possibly, a closing of a lid. The keyboard or laptop computer can be retained relative to a support unit or cradle, which can be manually or automatically pivotable between a storage configuration and a second configuration.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION [0001] The present invention relates generally to electronic systems and methods. More particularly, disclosed and protected herein are arrangements and methods for inducing a retraction of computer arrangements in response to sensed emergency and security conditions. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0002] In numerous circumstances, it would be advantageous to be able to induce an automatic retraction of a computer arrangement in response to a sensed emergency or security condition. By way of example, computers, computer components, and the data contained therein can be damaged or rendered unusable by fire and other extreme conditions. Furthermore, the mere threat of fire in a building can induce emergency precautions, such as sprinkler and fire retardant activation, that can impart irremediable damage to computer components. Additionally, theft, tampering, and unauthorized access to computer components present real and recognized dangers to businesses and individ...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0007] Furthermore, a lid can be provided for selectively closing off the open inner volume of the enclosure when the support member is in a retracted disposition. To facilitate a protection of the retained computer component, a means, such as a motorized arrangement, can be provided for enabling an automated closing of the lid in response to a sensed emergency or security condition thereby to close off the open inner volume of the enclosure. The enclosure can provide added protection against fire damage by the inclusion of fire resistant and retardant material. Still further, means, such as gaskets, seals, or the like, can be provided for rendering the open inner volume of the enclosure substantially watertight when the lid is in a closed position thereby to prevent damage during fire emergencies, tampering, and inadvertent spillage.

Problems solved by technology

By way of example, computers, computer components, and the data contained therein can be damaged or rendered unusable by fire and other extreme conditions.

Furthermore, the mere threat of fire in a building can induce emergency precautions, such as sprinkler and fire retardant activation, that can impart irremediable damage to computer components.

Additionally, theft, tampering, and unauthorized access to computer components present real and recognized dangers to businesses and individuals.

Indeed, the risk of theft increases in proportion to the consistent decrease in physical size of computer components.

Slim screen monitors, laptops, and other computers and computer components have become victim to their portability in that unauthorized persons can steal the devices quickly and surreptitiously.

To date, however, the prior art has failed to provide satisfactory systems and methods for enabling a retraction of computer components to a protected configuration to prevent damage and loss due to emergency and security threats.

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